Language and Linguistics, Swedish/Scandinavian Languages - Master's Programme

Within the specialisation, the research environment is characterised by a strong focus on the structure of language, approached from a range of theoretical perspectives, including generative grammar, functional linguistics, and semantics. While Swedish constitutes the primary object of study, other Nordic and Germanic languages are also examined. In recent years, particular attention has been devoted to the interfaces between information structure and prosody, reflecting a growing body of expertise and scholarly interest in these areas.

Research on language use in educational and societal contexts is equally well-established and vibrant, drawing on diverse theoretical frameworks such as text linguistics, critical discourse analysis, sociolinguistics, ethnography of communication, and translation theory. Both research domains encompass investigations from contemporary as well as historical perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of language in its various dimensions.

Successful completion of this specialisation presupposes a solid theoretical foundation and advanced proficiency in Swedish.

The programme consists of compulsory courses common to all specialisations, compulsory courses for each subject area, and elective courses in linguistics.

The teaching is based on lectures and workshops, with a heavy emphasis on discussions and group work. The academic year is split into two terms. Each term, you will usually take two or four courses, which are all examined separately. Subject specialisation courses and elective courses are offered on a rolling basis.

The programme prepares you for a future career in fields where competency in language and linguistics is essential. It also provides you with the academic background you need in order to apply for PhD studies in languages and linguistics throughout Europe and beyond.

As a graduate of the MA in Languages and Linguistics you have different career opportunities available to you. Many graduates continue to doctoral studies at universities throughout Europe and beyond, others work in academia as international coordinators, and research assistants. Some of our students work in the private sector as translators, teachers, consultants, project leaders, project coordinators among others.

Prerequisites

Bachelor’s degree with Swedish or Scandinavian languages as the main field of study Completed at least 90 credits in Swedish, Danish or Norwegian. Beginner level courses cannot be included in these. Bachelor’s thesis, or other equivalent academic work, relevant to the chosen specialization English course 6 (advanced proficiency) Good written and oral command of the language, equivalent to a pass on the TISUS or equivalent, or comparable proficiency in Danish or Norwegian.

Selection criteria

A major criterion in the admission process is the applicant's estimated ability to complete the programme successfully. The applicants are ranked based on their previous academic merits (grades for courses and the quality of their BA thesis or equivalent academic papers), their statement of purpose, and their proficiency in English. Admissions interviews may also be used to rank the applicants.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 270,000
First payment: SEK 67,500

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

Lund University Global Scholarship Programme

The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.

Lund University Global Scholarship

African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship

Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities. 

ARUA Scholarship

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden. 

Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website 

Country-specific scholarships and funding options

Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.

Country-specific scholarships

External scholarships

In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries. 

External scholarships